Having just commemorated Yom HaShoah, and in this moment of deep communal challenge and change, Rabbi Amy reflects on what it means to live openly as a Jew. Drawing on a personal experience, she speaks honestly about loss and isolation since October 7, while also sharing moving stories of unexpected allies and renewed commitment to Jewish life. Her message is a reminder that even in turbulent times, we are strong, we are resilient, and we are not alone.

This sermon originally aired on October 2, 2025.

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This podcast’s theme song, “Oseh Shalom,” is performed by Rob Aronson.

Moses stands before the burning bush and receives the divine command to tell Pharaoh, "Let my people go," yet he repeatedly resists, citing a profound speech impediment. Yet, this story serves as a powerful reminder that while we are all deeply flawed and bound to fail, if God can entrust the leadership of a nation to a man who struggled to speak, we too are capable of achieving greatness despite our own imperfections.

This sermon originally aired on January 13, 2026.

Love this episode and want to show your support? Contribute at: www.ti-stl.org/Donate

For more information about Congregation Temple Israel, visit: www.ti-stl.org

Follow us on social Instagram: www.instagram.com/congregationtempleisrael Facebook: www.facebook.com/templeisraelstlouis YouTube: www.youtube.com/tistl

This podcast’s theme song, “Oseh Shalom,” is performed by Rob Aronson.

When terrible things happen, we often look for where to place the blame - villains, ourselves, even God. This week’s Torah portion prompts us to ask the same question about how the Israelites went from having Joseph as Pharoah’s right-hand man to being entirely enslaved in Egypt just a short time later.

This sermon originally aired on January 9, 2026.

Love this episode and want to show your support? Contribute at: www.ti-stl.org/Donate

For more information about Congregation Temple Israel, visit: www.ti-stl.org

Follow us on social Instagram: www.instagram.com/congregationtempleisrael Facebook: www.facebook.com/templeisraelstlouis YouTube: www.youtube.com/tistl

This podcast’s theme song, “Oseh Shalom,” is performed by Rob Aronson.